UI/UX Software Engineer - NREC

About this role

At the National Robotics Engineering Center (NREC), it is our engineers and technicians who drive the breakthroughs that define our success. The members of our technical staff collaborate closely with leadership and multidisciplinary teams to design, build, and deploy sophisticated robotic solutions that address complex challenges in industrial, commercial and government sectors. Each project benefits from their expertise, creativity, and hands-on problem-solving, fueling progress and innovation across the organization.

As part of our dedicated team, you will work alongside world-class robotics professionals committed to pushing the boundaries of technology and redefining ideas into solutions for real-world applications. We foster a culture of professionalism, respect, and collaboration, offering a flexible and encouraging environment where you can sharpen your skills, lead impactful projects, and take control of your career development.

We are seeking a dynamic UI/UX Software Engineer for existing and new projects. In this position, you will work on a variety of user interfaces for robotic systems. You will have an opportunity to collaborate on an internal team and with sponsoring partners to support the work through all lifecycle stages. Our team has members with diverse backgrounds both in robotics and other industries aligned to make robust software and firmware that is useful in the world. Projects you may support range from industrial machine operator assist systems to agricultural productivity tools and beyond to other automation, autonomy, or safety systems. Your day-to-day work will include developing user interfaces for internal and external usage centered around robotic systems.

Your primary responsibilities include: • Co-Design Human-Machine Interfaces: Partner closely with robotics engineers, hardware teams, and field operators to design custom, intuitive interfaces for complex robotic systems. • Build Native Qt/QML Frontends: Develop fluid, hardware-accelerated user interfaces using QML and/or Qt, binding them smoothly to backend C++ or Python data streams. • Prototype & Test with Real Users: Prototype interaction flows and collaborate directly with end-users to evaluate usability, safety, and operator performance in the field. • Integrate Real-Time System Data: Connect UI components to central system state engines, telemetry feeds, and databases while ensuring the interface remains fast and responsive. • Champion Collaborative Software Development: Actively participate in an inclusive team culture through constructive peer reviews of both designs and code, integration testing, version control, and clear documentation. • Integrate & Adapt APIs: Adapt open-source libraries, proprietary tools, and backend APIs to extend UI capabilities cleanly and maintainably. • Cross-Functional Field Testing: Validate and refine interfaces through hands-on testing with both simulated environments and physical robotic hardware alongside the broader engineering team.

Required Qualifications: • Education & Experience: B.S. in Computer Science, HCI, Design, or equivalent practical experience, with 1–3+ years of combined academic or professional software development experience. • Qt / QML Proficiency: Hands-on experience building modern, responsive user interfaces using QML and/or Qt. • Frontend-to-Backend Integration: Understanding of how to connect QML frontends to application backends (via C++ signals/slots, PySide6/PyQt, or async data handlers). • User-Centered Mindset: Ability to translate user feedback, operational workflows, and rough sketches/wireframes into clear, functional visual layouts. • Teamwork & Communication: Strong interpersonal and technical communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to thrive in a cross-functional, multidisciplinary team environment. • Core Engineering Standards: Proficiency with Git version control, writing clean code, and participating in peer code/design reviews. • Adaptability & Curiosity: Enthusiasm for learning how physical hardware works and bridging the gap between human operators and complex machines.

We especially want to hear from you if you have experience or qualifications in ANY of the following areas: • Experience designing for touch pendants, handheld controllers, or embedded/cyber-physical systems. • Experience with robotics frameworks or tools (ROS / ROS 2, Gazebo, or 3D telemetry visualization). • Experience conducting usability interviews or observing end-users operating hardware in the field. • Exposure to Python, backend development, or database integration. • Familiarity with graphic design tools (Figma, Adobe XD, GIMP, or Photoshop) or Qt Design Studio. • Experience with Android development or embedded Linux deployment.

Other Requirements: • Successful pre-employment background check

This position will require work on a variety of projects, including projects that involve military/defense applications and/or are funded by military/defense sponsors.

Are you interested in joining our versatile team at NREC where you will have a direct impact on operations and meaningful projects? Join a collaborative environment where your hands-on skills, leadership, and mentorship will directly influence operations and inspire the next generation of innovators.

Why NREC? At NREC, you will shape the robotics revolution by tackling real-world challenges in agriculture, manufacturing, defense, energy, and much more. You will work alongside top robotics experts, develop ground breaking technologies, and see your solutions deployed in the field.

NREC at a Glance: • Located in Pittsburgh or “Roboburgh”, a hub for over 120+ robotics companies • 30+ years of pioneering robotics research • 150+ professionals driving innovation and real-world impact • Part of Carnegie Mellon University’s Robotics Institute , a global leader in robotics

NREC also leads in educational outreach through its Robotics Academy , which develops curricula and software

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